Agreement

“Do what you think is best,” the armor bearer replied. “I’m with you completely, whatever you decide.” [1 Samuel 14.7]

I wonder if this is a lesson about the importance of being in 'agreement'?

In Jonathan's and his armor bearer's present circumstance, it was only the two of them. The direction Jonathan felt 'led' to was not very justifiable from a manpower perspective. However, Jonathan added an element of faith, "Perhaps the LORD will help us..."

Jonathan stated his 'faith' to his armor bearer and waited for his response. The response was one of agreement and the decision was solidified to move forward with what would otherwise have been a terribly foolish decision - for two men to attack twenty.

Is there a lesson for us here in our own faith walk? I think so.

I am ashamed of how many times I have 'felt led' to a 'faith move' but did not even consider having the agreement of those around me (who could potentially be affected by my decision).

It's not that God does not want us to do unconventional faith feats, but it seems prudent, even wise, to have the spiritual agreement of those in company with us whose lives will also be affected by our decision!

As a side note: this story highlights the importance of being in company with like-minded people when it comes to faith in God!

I find it interesting that Jonathan used the input of the enemy to qualify his decision-making process.

It intrigues me that Jonathan also used the agreement of his opponents to conclude the direction of the LORD in attacking! Check out verses 8-10:

“All right, then,” Jonathan told him. “We will cross over and let them see us. If they say to us, ‘Stay where you are or we’ll kill you,’ then we will stop and not go up to them. But if they say, ‘Come on up and fight,’ then we will go up. That will be the LORD’s sign that he will help us defeat them.”

Jonathan's armor bearer was in agreement, and Jonathan's opponents were in agreement. Then, what took place was miraculous.

Hmm.

Father, I can see the importance of agreement. Help me learn how to live and walk in it!